Extra Services

Local store specializing in martial arts equipment, events

By: Kotoko Chinen

Date Posted: 1999-05-29

If you're looking for the latest in martial arts equipment, try the newly opened "Lotus Club" in Chatan-cho. The Lotus Club specializes in the supply of martial arts equipment for those who disciplines their body and mind through learning the ancient art of self-protection. This is the second Lotus Club store in Japan and the first one of its kind in the Chatan area. As Okinawa is said to be the birthplace of karate, there's literally hundreds of dojo around the island and thousands of people who attempt to master the skills and the spirit of this demanding sport. "In order to help people achieve their goals in the martial arts, we provide excellent quality goods at reasonable prices," said Michiru Miyazato, a salesperson at Lotus Club. A visit to the shop will soon find you admiring a wide range of fighting and protective equipment, including tiles and boards that can be used to demonstrate how far your training has advanced. There's also a large stock of karate outfits, kicking mitts, headgear and more. Lotus Club stocks two types of Karate wear - for the "kata" and "kumi" forms. Sizes range from "0" for children up to a height of 120 cms, and No. 8 for adults up to 185 cms (or around 6'0"). Both are available in either ivory or white.. More than just a provider of martial arts equipment, Lotus Club also arranges exciting events for martial arts enthusiasts. On Sunday June 6, "Kick Night - The Samurai Challenge" will be held at Club Cielo in Naha City. Bouts are fought K-1 Style and the kick boxers will fight in a ring normally used as a dance floor. The idea of choosing clubs as venues for bouts and exhibitions is gaining popularity on the mainland, and this event will mark the first time it is held in a dance club in Okinawa. Just like a regular club, alcohol is served and guests can take drinks to their seats. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the games begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost ¥2,000 in advance and ¥2,500 at the door, and are available at The Lotus Club. For more information, call 926-2488. English-speaking staff will be only too glad to help. Directions: The Lotus Club is located on the right side of Route 58 from Kadena. The building adjoins "Mr. Doughnuts" near Camp Lester in Chatan-cho. It opens seven days a week with business hours from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. *** The Lotus Club is giving away free tickets for "Kick Night, the Samurai Challenge" to two Japan Update readers. If you want to win the tickets, please send a fax to Kotoko at 934-5690 or send an E-mail at update@japanupdate.com with your name, phone number or Fax number, E-mail address by Monday May 31